MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos made this promise Friday, Feb. 12 during the groundbreaking ceremony for the project, which is expected to address the perennial illegal vending and traffic problems in Baclaran.
“We shall help in the realization of this project – in terms of coordination, providing legal and technical assistance, and even research – all for the welfare of the vendors not only in Baclaran but in other areas,” said Abalos during the site inspection and groundbreaking rites. Abalos believes that the Baclaran People’s Market will provide formal livelihood, employment, and economic opportunities not only to the marginalized constituents of Paranaque but also to those living in the neighboring city.
It is also the hope of the MMDA that the project would help solve the perennial traffic problems in the area. The project was favorably endorsed and supported by the Metro Manila Council last December 2017 through MMC Resolution 17-22.Mayor Olivarez said they will build the people’s market for the vendors who have been displaced in earlier clearing operations. An estimated 2,000 vendors will benefit from it.
Baclaran is a center of trade in the southern part of Metro Manila and is known for the 100,000 devotees and pilgrims who visit the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church located along Roxas Boulevard.